Disease simulation system and method

ABSTRACT

A system and method for predicting the effect of patient self-care actions on a disease control parameter. A future disease control parameter value X(t j ) at time t j  is determined from a prior disease control parameter value X(t i ) at time t i  based on an optimal control parameter value R(t j ) at time t j , the difference between the prior disease control parameter value X(t i ) and an optimal control parameter value R(t i ) at time t i , and a set of differentials between patient self-care parameters having patient self-care values S M (t i ) at time t i  and optimal self-care parameters having optimal self-care values O M (t i ) at time t i . The differentials are multiplied by corresponding scaling factors K M . The system includes an input device for entering the patient self-care values S M (t i ). A memory stores the optimal control parameter values R(t i ) and R(t j ), the prior disease control parameter value X(t i ), the optimal self-care values O M (t i ), and the scaling factors K M . A processor in communication with the input device and memory calculates the future disease control parameter value X(t j ). A display is connected to the processor to display the future disease control parameter value X(t j ) to a patient.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of copending patent application Ser. No. 09/810,865, filed Mar. 16, 2001, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 09/399,122, filed Sep. 20, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,233,539, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 08/781,278 filed Jan. 10, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,956,501, each of which are herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to disease simulation systems, and in particular to a system and method for simulating a disease control parameter and for predicting the effect of patient self-care actions on the disease control parameter.

2. Description of Prior Art

Managing a chronic disease or ongoing health condition requires the monitoring and controlling of a physical or mental parameter of the disease. Examples of these disease control parameters include blood glucose in diabetes, respiratory flow in asthma, blood pressure in hypertension, cholesterol in cardiovascular disease, weight in eating disorders, T-cell or viral count in HIV, and frequency or timing of episodes in mental health disorders. Because of the continuous nature of these diseases, their corresponding control parameters must be monitored and controlled on a regular basis by the patients themselves outside of a medical clinic.

Typically, the patients monitor and control these parameters in clinician assisted self-care or outpatient treatment programs. In these treatment programs, patients are responsible for performing self-care actions which impact the control parameter. Patients are also responsible for measuring the control parameter to determine the success of the self-care actions and the need for further adjustments. The successful implementation of such a treatment program requires a high degree of motivation, training, and understanding on the part of the patients to select and perform the appropriate self-care actions.

One method of training patients involves demonstrating the effect of various self-care actions on the disease control parameter through computerized simulations. Several computer simulation programs have been developed specifically for diabetes patients. Examples of such simulation programs include BG Pilot™ commercially available from Raya Systems, Inc. of 2570 El Camino Real, Suite 520, Mountain View, Calif. 94040 and AIDA freely available on the World Wide Web at the Diabetes UK website http://www.pcug.co.uk/diabetes/aida.htm.

Both BG Pilot™ and AIDA use mathematical compartmental models of metabolism to attempt to mimic various processes of a patient's physiology. For example, insulin absorption through a patient's fatty tissue into the patient's blood is represented as a flow through several compartments with each compartment having a different flow constant. Food absorption from mouth to stomach and gut is modeled in a similar manner. Each mathematical compartmental model uses partial differential equations and calculus to simulate a physiological process.

This compartmental modeling approach to disease simulation has several disadvantages. First, understanding the compartmental models requires advanced mathematical knowledge of partial differential equations and calculus which is far beyond the comprehension level of a typical patient. Consequently, each model is an unfathomable “black box” to the patient who must nevertheless trust the model and rely upon it to learn critical health issues.

A second disadvantage of the compartmental modeling approach is that a new model is needed for each new disease to be simulated. Many diseases involve physiological processes for which accurate models have not been developed. Consequently, the mathematical modeling approach used in BG Pilot™ and AIDA is not sufficiently general to extend simulations to diseases other than diabetes.

A further disadvantage of the modeling approach used in BG Pilot™ and AIDA is that the mathematical models are not easily customized to an individual patient. As a result, BG Pilot™ and AIDA are limited to simulating the effect of changes in insulin and diet on the blood glucose profile of a typical patient. Neither of these simulation programs may be customized to predict the effect of changes in insulin and diet on the blood glucose profile of an individual patient.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a disease simulation system which is sufficiently accurate to teach a patient appropriate self-care actions and sufficiently simple to be understood by the average patient. It is another object of the invention to provide a disease simulation system which may be used to simulate many different types of diseases. A further object of the invention is to provide a disease simulation system which may be easily customized to an individual patient.

These and other objects and advantages will become more apparent after consideration of the ensuing description and the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention presents a system and method for simulating a disease control parameter and for predicting the effect of patient self-care actions on the disease control parameter. According to the method, a future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) at time t_(j) is determined from a prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)) at time t_(i) based on an optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)) at time t_(j), the difference between the prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)) and an optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)) at time t_(i), and a set of differentials between patient self-care parameters having patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) at time t_(i) and optimal self-care parameters having optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)) at time t_(i). In the preferred embodiment, the differentials are multiplied by corresponding scaling factors K_(M) and the future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is calculated according to the equation: ${X\left( t_{j} \right)} = {{R\left( t_{j} \right)} + \left( {{X\left( t_{i} \right)} - {R\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right) + {\sum\limits_{M}{K_{M}\left( {{S_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)} - {O_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right)}}}$

A preferred system for implementing the method includes an input device for entering the patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)). The system also includes a memory for storing the optimal control parameter values R(t_(i)) and R(t_(j)), the prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)), the optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)), and the scaling factors K_(M). A processor in communication with the input device and memory calculates the future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)). A display is connected to the processor to display the future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) to a patient.

In the preferred embodiment, the system further includes a recording device in communication with the processor for recording an actual control parameter value A(t_(i)) at time t_(i), an actual control parameter value A(t_(j)) at time t_(j), and actual self-care parameters having actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) at time t_(i). The processor adjusts the scaling factors K_(M) based on the difference between the actual control parameter value A(t_(j)) and the optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)), the difference between the actual control parameter value A(t_(i)) and the optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the difference between the actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) and the optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)). Thus, the scaling factors K_(M) are customized to an individual patient to predict the effect on the disease control parameter of self-care actions performed by the individual patient.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a simulation system according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a sample physiological parameter entry screen according to the invention.

FIG. 3 is a sample self-care parameter entry screen according to the invention.

FIG. 4 is a table of values according to the invention.

FIG. 5 is a sample graph of disease control parameter values created from the table of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is another table of values according to the invention.

FIG. 7 is a sample graph of disease control parameter values created from the table of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is another table of values according to the invention.

FIG. 9 is a sample graph of disease control parameter values created from the table of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of the entry of actual parameter values in a recording device of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of another simulation system according to the invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the components of the system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating steps included in a method of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating steps included in another method of the invention.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention is a system and method for simulating a disease control parameter and for predicting an effect of patient self-care actions on the disease control parameter. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that these specific details need not be used to practice the invention. In other instances, well known structures, interfaces, and processes are not shown in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention.

FIGS. 1-10 illustrate a preferred embodiment of a simulation system according to the invention. The following table illustrates a representative sampling of the types of diseases, patient self-care parameters, and disease control parameters which may be simulated using the system and method of the invention. Control Disease Self-Care Parameters Parameter Diabetes insulin, diet, exercise blood glucose level Asthma allergens, exercise, peak flow rate inhaled bronchial dilators, anti-inflammatory medications Obesity diet, exercise, metabolism weight altering medications Hypertension diet, exercise, stress blood pressure reduction, blood pressure medications Coronary Artery diet, exercise, stress cholesterol Disease reduction, lipid lowering medications Panic Disorder stress reduction, number of anti-depressant medications episodes Nicotine cigarettes smoked, coping urges to smoke Addiction behaviors

The above table is not intended as an exhaustive list, but merely as a representative sampling of the types of diseases and disease control parameters which may be simulated. For simplicity, the preferred embodiment is described with reference to a single disease, diabetes, having a single disease control parameter, a blood glucose level. However, it is to be understood that the system and method of the invention are sufficiently flexible to simulate any disease which has a measurable control parameter and which requires patient self-care actions.

Referring to FIG. 1, a simulation system generally indicated at 10 includes a server 12 having a processor and memory for executing a simulation program which will be described in detail below. Server 12 is in communication with a healthcare provider computer 14 through a network link 48.

Healthcare provider computer 14 is preferably a personal computer located at a healthcare provider site, such as a doctor's office.

Server 12 is also in communication with a patient multi-media processor 24 through a network link 50. Patient multi-media processor 24 is located at a patient site, typically the patient's home. In the preferred embodiment, server 12 is a world wide web server, multi-media processor 24 is a web TV processor for accessing the simulation program on server 12, and links 48 and 50 are Internet links. Specific techniques for establishing client/server computer systems in this manner are well known in the art.

Healthcare provider computer 14 includes a processor and memory, a standard display 16, and a keyboard 20. Computer 14 further includes a card slot 18 for receiving a data storage card, such as a smart card 22. Computer 14 is designed to read data from card 22 and write data to card 22. Patient multi-media processor 24 includes a corresponding card slot 26 for receiving card 22. Processor 24 is designed to read data from card 22 and write data to card 22. Thus, healthcare provider computer 14 communicates with patient multi-media processor 24 via smart card 22. Such smart card data communication systems are also well known in the art.

Multi-media processor 24 is connected to a display unit 28, such as a television, by a standard connection cord 32. Display unit 28 has a screen 30 for displaying simulations to the patient. An input device 34, preferably a conventional hand-held remote control unit or keyboard, is in signal communication with processor 24. Device 34 has buttons or keys 36 for entering data in processor 24.

System 10 also includes an electronic recording device 38 for recording actual control parameter values and patient self-care data indicating actual self-care actions performed by the patient. Recording device 38 includes a measuring device 40 for producing measurements of the disease control parameter, a keypad 44 for entering the self-care data, and a display 42 for displaying the control parameter values and self-care data to the patient.

Recording device 38 is preferably portable so that the patient may carry device 38 and enter the self-care data at regular monitoring intervals. Device 38 is further connectable to healthcare provider computer 14 via a standard connection cord 46 so that the control parameter values and patient self-care data may be uploaded from device 38 to computer 14. Such recording devices for producing measurements of a disease control parameter and for recording self-care data are well known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,019,974 issued to Beckers on May 28, 1991 discloses such a recording device.

In the example of the preferred embodiment, the disease control parameter is the patient's blood glucose level and recording device 38 is a blood glucose meter, as shown in FIG. 10. In this embodiment, measuring device 40 is a blood glucose test strip designed to test blood received from a patient's finger 54. Device 38 is also designed to record values of the patient's diet, medications, and exercise durations entered by the patient through keypad 44. Of course, in alternative embodiments, the recording device may be a peak flow meter for recording a peak flow rate, a cholesterol meter for recording a cholesterol level, etc.

The simulation system of the present invention includes a simulation program which uses a mathematical model to calculate disease control parameter values. The following variables used in the mathematical model are defined as follows:

N=Normal time interval in which patient self-care actions are employed to make a measurable difference in the disease control parameter or a natural rhythm occurs in the disease control parameter. For diabetes and asthma, time interval N is preferably twenty-four hours. For obesity or coronary artery disease, time interval N is typically three to seven days.

t₁, t₂, . . . t_(i), t_(j) . . . t_(N)=Time points at which the disease control parameter is measured by a patient. For a daily rhythm control parameter such as a blood glucose level, the time points are preferably before and after meals. For weight or cholesterol control parameters, the time points are preferably once a day or once every second day.

X(t)=Simulated disease control parameter value at time t determined by the simulation program.

R(t)=Optimal control parameter value at time t expected as a normal rhythm value of the disease control parameter at time t if the patient performs optimal self-care actions in perfect compliance from time t_(j) to the time point immediately preceding time t.

A(t)=actual control parameter value at time t measured by the patient.

O_(M)(t_(i))=Optimal self-care parameter values O₁(t_(i)), O₂(t_(i)), . . . O_(m)(t_(i)) at time t_(i) expected to produce optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)) at time t_(j). For example, a diabetes patient's optimal self-care parameter values include a prescribed dose of insulin, a prescribed intake of carbohydrates, and a prescribed exercise duration.

S_(M)(t_(i))=Patient self-care parameter values S₁(t_(i)), S₂(t_(i)), . . . . S_(m)(t_(i)) at time t_(i) entered in the simulation system by the patient to simulate self-care actions.

C_(M)(t_(i))=Actual self-care parameter values C₁(t_(i)), C₂(t_(i)), . . . C_(m)(t_(i)) at time t_(i) indicating actual self-care actions performed by the patient at time t_(i).

K_(M)=Corresponding scaling factors K₁(t_(i)), K₂(t_(i)), . . . K_(m) for weighting the impact on a future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) at time t_(j) which results from differentials between patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) and corresponding optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i))

With these definitions, future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is calculated according to the equation: ${X\left( t_{j} \right)} = {{R\left( t_{j} \right)} + \left( {{X\left( t_{i} \right)} - {R\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right) + {\sum\limits_{M}{K_{M}\left( {{S_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)} - {O_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right)}}}$

Future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) at time t_(j) is determined from a prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)) at time t_(i) based on an optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)) at time t_(j), the difference between prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)) and an optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)) at time t_(i), and a set of differentials between patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)). The differentials are multiplied by corresponding scaling factors K_(M).

Thus, as patient self-care parameter values S_(M)(t_(i)) deviate from optimal self-care parameter values O_(M)(t_(i)), future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) deviates from optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)) by an amount proportional to scaling factors KM. This mathematical model follows the patient's own intuition and understanding that if the patient performs optimal self-care actions in perfect compliance, the patient will achieve the optimal control parameter value at the next measurement time. However, if the patient deviates from the optimal self-care actions, the disease control parameter value will deviate from the optimal value at the next measurement time.

The simulation program is also designed to generate an entry screen for entry of the patient self-care parameter values. FIG. 3 shows a sample patient self-care parameters entry screen 52 as it appears on display unit 28. The patient self-care parameters include a food exchange parameter expressed in grams of carbohydrates consumed, an insulin dose parameter expressed in units of insulin injected, and an exercise duration parameter expressed in fifteen minute units of exercise performed.

These self-care parameters are illustrative of the preferred embodiment and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Many different self-care parameters may be used in alternative embodiments. Screen 52 contains data fields 53 for entering a food exchange parameter value S₁(t), an insulin dose parameter value S₂(t), and an exercise duration parameter value S₃ (t). Each data field 53 has a corresponding time field 51 for entering a time point corresponding to the patient self-care parameter value. Screen 52 also includes an OK button 55 and a cancel button 57 for confirming and canceling, respectively, the values entered in screen 52.

FIG. 4 shows a sample table of values 56 created by the simulation program using the data entered by the patient through the self-care parameters entry screen. Table 56 includes a column of simulated disease control parameter values calculated by the simulation program, as will be explained in the operation section below. The simulation program is further designed to generate graphs of simulated disease control parameter values. FIG. 5 illustrates a sample graph 58 generated from table 56 as it appears on screen 30 of the display unit. Specific techniques for writing a simulation program to produce such a graph are well known in the art.

In the preferred embodiment, healthcare provider computer 14 is programmed to determine scaling factors K_(M) from values of physiological parameters of the patient. FIG. 2 shows a sample physiological parameter entry screen 41 as it appears on the healthcare provider computer. The physiological parameters of the patient include a body mass, a metabolism rate, a fitness level, and hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivities. These physiological parameters are illustrative of the preferred embodiment and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Many different physiological parameters may be used in alternative embodiments. Screen 41 includes data fields 43 for entering physiological parameter values, an OK button 45 for confirming the values, and a cancel button 47 for canceling the values.

Healthcare provider computer 14 stores indexes for determining the scaling factors from the physiological parameters entered. For example, FIG. 4 shows an insulin sensitivity scaling factor K₂ corresponding to insulin dose parameter value S₂(t). Computer 14 is programmed to determine from a stored insulin index a value of scaling factor K₂ based on the entered values of the patient's body mass and insulin sensitivities. In this example, computer 14 determines a value of −40 for scaling factor K₂, indicating that for this patient, one unit of insulin is expected to lower the patient's blood glucose level by 40 mg/dL. Computer 14 is programmed to determine the remaining scaling factors in a similar manner. The specific indexes required to determine the scaling factors from values of a patient's physiological parameters are well known in the art.

In the preferred embodiment, healthcare provider computer 14 is also programmed to adjust scaling factors K_(M) based on the difference between an actual control parameter value A(t_(j)) measured at time t_(j) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)), the difference between an actual control parameter value A(t_(i)) measured at time t_(i) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the difference between actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) performed by the patient at time t_(i) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)).

Scaling factors K_(M) are adjusted to fit the mathematical model presented above, preferably using a least squares, chi-squares, or similar regressive fitting technique. Specific techniques for adjusting coefficients in a mathematical model are well known in the art. For example, a discussion of these techniques is found in “Numerical Recipes in C: The Art of Scientific Computing”, Cambridge University Press, 1988.

The operation of the preferred embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating a preferred method of using system 10 to simulate the disease control parameter. In step 200, optimal self-care values and optimal control parameter values for each time point are determined for the patient, preferably by the patient's healthcare provider. The optimal self-care values and optimal control parameter values are then entered and stored in provider computer 14.

In the preferred embodiment, the optimal self-care values include an optimal food exchange parameter value O₁(t) expressed in grams of carbohydrates, an optimal insulin dose parameter value O₂(t) expressed in units of insulin, and an optimal exercise duration parameter value O₃(t) expressed in fifteen minute units of exercise. Specific techniques for prescribing optimal self-care values and optimal control parameter values for a patient are well known in the medical field.

In step 202, the healthcare provider determines the physiological parameter values of the patient and enters the physiological parameter values in computer 14 through entry screen 41. As shown in FIG. 2, the physiological parameter values include a body mass, a metabolism rate, a fitness level, and hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivities. Specific techniques for testing a patient to determine these physiological parameter values are also well known in the medical field.

Following entry of the physiological parameter values, computer 14 determines scaling factors K_(M) from the stored indexes, step 204. For example, FIG. 4 shows a food exchange scaling factor K₁ corresponding to food exchange parameter value S₁(t), an insulin sensitivity scaling factor K₂ corresponding to insulin dose parameter value S₂(t), and an exercise duration scaling factor K₃ corresponding to exercise duration parameter value S₃(t).

In this example, computer 14 determines a value of 4 for scaling factor K₁, a value of −40 for scaling factor K₂, and a value of −5 for scaling factor K₃. These values indicate that one gram of carbohydrate is expected to raise the patient's blood glucose level by 4 mg/dL, one unit of insulin is expected to lower the patient's blood glucose level by 40 mg/dL, and fifteen minutes of exercise is expected to lower the patient's blood glucose level by 5 mg/dL. Of course, these values are just examples of possible scaling factors for one particular patient. The values of the scaling factors vary between patients in dependence upon the physiological parameter values determined for the patient.

The determined optimal self-care values, optimal control parameter values, and scaling factors are then stored on smart card 22, step 206. Typically, the values are stored on smart card 22 during a patient visit to the healthcare provider. The patient then takes home smart card 22 and inserts smart card 22 in patient multi-media processor 24, step 208. Next, the patient accesses the simulation program on server 12 through multi-media processor 24, step 210.

The simulation program generates self-care parameters entry screen 52, which is displayed to the patient on screen 30 of display unit 28. In step 212, the patient enters patient self-care values S_(M)(t) and corresponding time points in data fields 53 and 51, respectively, using input device 34. The optimal self-care values, optimal control parameter values, scaling factors, and patient self-care values are transmitted from multi-media processor 24 to server 12 through link 50. In step 214, the simulation program calculates simulated disease control parameter values at each time point according to the equation: ${X\left( t_{j} \right)} = {{R\left( t_{j} \right)} = {\left( {{X\left( t_{i} \right)} - {R\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right) + {\sum\limits_{M}{K_{M}\left( {{S_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)} - {O_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right)}}}}$

Thus, each future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is calculated from optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), the difference between prior disease control parameter value X(t_(i)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the set of differentials between patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)). The differentials are multiplied by corresponding scaling factors K_(M). In the preferred embodiment, first simulated disease control parameter value X(t₁) at time t_(j) is set equal to first optimal control parameter value R(t₁) at time t₁. In an alternative embodiment, first simulated disease control parameter value X(t₁) is determined from the last disease control parameter value calculated in a prior simulation.

FIGS. 4-5 illustrate a first example of simulated disease control parameter values calculated by the simulation program. Referring to FIG. 4, the simulation program creates table of values 56 having a time column, an optimal control parameter value column, a simulated control parameter value column, three self-care value differential columns indicating differentials between patient self-care parameter values and optimal self-care parameter values, and three corresponding scaling factor columns for weighting the corresponding self-care value differentials.

Table 56 illustrates the simplest simulation, in which the patient follows the optimal self-care actions in perfect compliance at each time point. In this simulation, each patient self-care parameter value equals its corresponding optimal self-care parameter value, so that the simulated disease control parameter value at each time point is simply equal to the optimal control parameter value at each time point. Referring to FIG. 5, the simulation program generates graph 58 of the simulated disease control parameter values.

Graph 58 is displayed to the patient on screen 30 of display unit 28, step 216.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate a second example of simulated disease control parameter values calculated by the simulation program.

FIG. 6 shows a table of values 59 having identical structure to table 56. Table 59 illustrates a simulation in which the patient consumes 10 extra grams of carbohydrates at 8:00 and exercises for 60 extra minutes at 15:00. In this simulation, the differential S₁(t)-O₁(t) is equal to 10 at 8:00 due to the 10 extra grams of carbohydrates consumed by the patient. Because scaling factor K₁ equals 4, the simulation program calculates simulated disease control parameter value X(t₂) at time point 10:00 as 40 mg/dL higher than optimal control parameter value R(t₂) at 10:00.

Similarly, the differential S₃(t)—O₃(t) is equal to 4 at time point 15:00 due to the 60 extra minutes of exercise performed by the patient. With simulated disease control parameter value X(t₄) exceeding optimal control parameter value R(t₄) by 40 mg/dL at 15:00 and with scaling factor K₃ equal to −5, the simulation program calculates simulated disease control parameter value X(t₅) at time point 18:00 as 20 mg/dL higher than optimal control parameter value R(t₅). FIG. 7 shows a graph 60 of the simulated-disease control parameter values determined in table 59. Graph 60 is displayed to the patient on screen 30 of the display unit.

FIGS. 8-9 illustrate a third example of simulated disease control parameter values calculated by the simulation program. Referring to FIG. 8, a table of values 61 illustrates a simulation in which the patient consumes 10 extra grams of carbohydrates at 8:00, injects 1 extra unit of insulin at 10:00, and exercises for 60 extra minutes at 15:00. The differential S₂(t)—O₂(t) is equal to 1 at 10:00 due to the 1 extra unit of insulin injected by the patient. With simulated disease control parameter value X(t₂) exceeding optimal control parameter value R(t₂) by 40 mg/dL at 10:00, and with scaling factor K₂ equal to −40, the simulation program calculates simulated disease control parameter value X(t₃) at time point 12:00 as equal to optimal control parameter value R(t₃). FIG. 8 shows a graph 62 of the simulated disease control parameter values determined in table 61.

In addition to performing simulations with the simulation program, the patient records actual control parameter values and actual self-care values indicating actual self-care actions performed by the patient at each time point, step 218. These values are preferably recorded in recording device 38. Upon the patient's next visit to the healthcare provider, the actual control parameter values and actual self-care values are uploaded to provider computer 14, step 220. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that recording device 38 may also be networked to provider computer 14 through a modem and telephone lines or similar network connection. In this alternative embodiment, the actual control parameter values and actual self-care values are transmitted directly from the patient's home to provider computer 14.

In step 222, provider computer 14 adjusts scaling factors KM based on the difference between the actual control parameter values and the optimal control parameter values at each time point and the difference between the actual self-care values and the optimal self-care values at each time point. Scaling factors K_(M) are adjusted to fit them to the actual patient data recorded. In this manner, the scaling factors are customized to the individual patient to enable the patient to run customized simulations. The new values of the scaling factors are stored on smart card 22 which the patient takes home and inserts in processor 24 to run new simulations.

FIGS. 11-12 illustrate a second embodiment of the invention. The second embodiment differs from the preferred embodiment in that the components of the simulation system are contained in a single stand-alone computing device 64. The second embodiment also differs from the preferred embodiment in that the system predicts each future disease control parameter value from an actual measured disease control parameter value rather than from a prior simulated disease control parameter value.

Referring to FIG. 11, computing device 64 includes a housing 66 for holding the components of device 64. Housing 66 is sufficiently compact to enable device 64 to be hand-held and carried by a patient. Device 64 also includes measuring device 40 for producing measurements of actual control parameters values and a display 70 for displaying data to the patient. Device 64 further includes a keypad 68 for entering in device 64 the optimal control parameter values, the optimal self-care values, the patient self-care parameter values, the actual self-care parameter values, and the patient's physiological parameter values.

FIG. 12 shows a schematic block diagram of the components of device 64 and their interconnections. Device 64 has a microprocessor 72 and a memory 74 operably connected to microprocessor 72. Measuring device 40 and display 70 are also connected to microprocessor 72. Keypad 68 is connected to microprocessor 72 through a standard keypad decoder 78. Microprocessor 72 is connected to an input/output port 76 for entering in device 64 a simulation program to be executed by microprocessor 72 which will be explained in detail below.

Memory 74 stores the optimal control parameter values, the optimal self-care values, the patient self-care parameter values, the actual self-care parameter values C_(M)(t), the scaling factors, and the patient's physiological parameter values. Memory 74 also stores the simulation program to be executed by microprocessor 72 and the indexes for calculating the scaling factors from the patient's physiological parameter values.

In the second embodiment, microprocessor 72 is programmed to perform the functions performed by the healthcare provider computer of the preferred embodiment. The functions include determining scaling factors K_(M) from the patient's physiological parameter values. The functions also include adjusting scaling factors KM based on the difference between actual control parameter value A(t_(j)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)), the difference between actual control parameter value A(t_(i)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the difference between actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)).

The operation of the second embodiment is shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a preferred method of using the system of the second embodiment to predict an effect of patient self-care actions on a disease control parameter. In step 300, the optimal control parameter values and optimal self-care values are entered in device 64 and stored in memory 74. The optimal control parameter values and optimal self-care values may be entered in device 64 either through keypad 68 or through input/output port 76.

In step 302, the patient or healthcare provider determines the patient's physiological parameter values. The physiological parameter values are then entered in device 64 through keypad 68 and stored in memory 74. Following entry of the physiological parameter values, microprocessor 72 determines scaling factors KM from the indexes stored in memory 74, step 304. Scaling factors KM are then stored in memory 74. In an alternative method of determining and storing scaling factors K_(M) in memory 74, scaling factors K_(M) are determined in a healthcare provider computer, as previously described in the preferred embodiment. Scaling factors K_(M) are then entered in device 64 through keypad 68 or port 76 and stored in memory 74.

In step 306, the patient enters in microprocessor 72 actual disease control parameter A(t_(i)). To enter actual disease control parameter A(t_(i)), the patient places his or her finger on measurement device 40 at time t_(i). Measurement device 40 produces a measurement of actual disease control parameter A(t_(i)) which is stored in memory 74. In step 308, the patient enters in microprocessor 72 patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) using keypad 68. In step 310, microprocessor 72 executes the simulation program stored in memory 74 to calculate future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)).

The simulation program of the second embodiment differs from the simulation program of the preferred embodiment in that future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is calculated from actual disease control parameter A(t_(i)) rather than from a prior simulated disease control parameter value. In the second embodiment, future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is calculated according to the equation: ${X\left( t_{j} \right)} = {{R\left( t_{j} \right)} = {\left( {{X\left( t_{i} \right)} - {R\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right) + {\sum\limits_{M}{K_{M}\left( {{S_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)} - {O_{M}\left( t_{i} \right)}} \right)}}}}$

Thus, future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is determined from optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), the difference between actual disease control parameter A(t_(i)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the set of differentials between patient self-care values S_(M)(t_(i)) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)). The differentials are multiplied by corresponding scaling factors K_(M). Future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is displayed to the patient on display 70, step 312.

Once future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) is displayed to the patient, the patient uses the value to select appropriate actual self-care actions to perform at time t_(i). Alternatively, the patient may perform several more simulations of future disease control parameter value X(t_(j)) to decide appropriate self-care actions to perform at time t_(i). Once the patient has performed the self-care actions, the patient enters in microprocessor 72 actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) indicating the self-care actions performed, step 314. The actual self-care values are then stored in memory 74.

The patient also enters in microprocessor 72 actual disease control parameter A(t_(j)) measured at time t_(j). To enter actual disease control parameter A(t_(j)), the patient places his or her finger on measurement device 40 at time t_(j). Measurement device 40 produces a measurement of actual disease control parameter A(t_(j)) which is stored in memory 74, step 316. In step 318, microprocessor 72 adjusts scaling factors K_(M) based on the difference between actual control parameter value A(t_(j)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(j)), the difference between actual control parameter value A(t_(i)) and optimal control parameter value R(t_(i)), and the difference between actual self-care values C_(M)(t_(i)) and optimal self-care values O_(M)(t_(i)). In this manner, the scaling factors are customized to the individual patient to enable the patient to run customized simulations. The new values of the scaling factors are stored in memory 74 and used by microprocessor 72 in subsequent simulations.

SUMMARY, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

Although the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention but merely as illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments. Many other embodiments of the invention are possible. For example, the preferred embodiment is described in relation to diabetes. However, the system and method of the invention may be used for simulating any disease which has a measurable control parameter and which requires patient self-care actions. Similarly, the self-care parameters, corresponding scaling factors, and physiological parameters described are exemplary of just one possible embodiment. Many different self-care parameters, scaling factors, and physiological parameters may be used in alternative embodiments.

The preferred embodiment also presents a simulation system that includes a server, a healthcare provider computer, and patient multi-media processor communicating with the provider computer via a smart card. This configuration of system components is presently preferred for ease of setting, storing, and adjusting the model parameters and scaling factors under the supervision of a healthcare provider. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that many other system configurations are possible. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the system is configured as a single stand-alone computing device for executing simulations.

In another embodiment, the smart card is eliminated from the simulation system. In this embodiment, the model parameter values and scaling factors are transmitted directly to the server from the healthcare provider computer. In a further embodiment, the provider computer is also eliminated and the recording device is networked directly to the server. In this embodiment, the server is programmed to set, store, and adjust the model parameters and scaling factors based on patient data received through the recording device and patient multi-media processor.

In yet another embodiment, the server is eliminated and the simulation program is run on the patient multi-media processor. In this embodiment, the recording device and multi-media processor may also be networked directly to the provider computer, eliminating the need for a smart card. Specific techniques for networking computers and recording devices in these alternative system configurations are well known in the art.

Further, the first embodiment is described as a system for simulating a disease control parameter from simulated data and the second embodiment is described as a system for predicting a future value of a disease control parameter from actual patient data. These systems are presented in separate embodiments for clarity of illustration and ease of understanding. However, it is anticipated that both embodiments could be combined into a single simulation system for simulating disease control parameter values from simulated data, actual-patient data, or a combination of simulated and actual data.

Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the examples given but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. 

1. A simulation system comprising: a processor unit; a server configured to communicate with the processor unit through at least one communication network and run a simulation program stored in a computer readable medium, wherein (i) the server is remotely situated from the processor unit, (ii) the simulation program is configured to generate one or more simulated disease control parameter values and (iii) the disease control parameter values are related to patient self-care of a chronic or persistent condition being managed by a patient; a recording device remotely situated from the server and configured to communicate with the processor unit; and a healthcare provider computer remotely situated from the server, the processor unit and the recording device, wherein the healthcare provider computer is configured to communicate with the processor unit.
 2. The simulation system according to claim 1, further comprising a data storage card, wherein the healthcare provider computer and the processor unit are configured to communicate via the data storage card.
 3. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the healthcare provider computer and the processor unit are configured to communicate via the at least one communication network.
 4. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the healthcare provider computer is programmed to determine one or more scaling factors from values of physiological parameters of the patient.
 5. The simulation system according to claim 4, wherein the healthcare provider computer is programmed to determine the one or more scaling factors from values of physiological parameters of the patient using predetermined indexes.
 6. The simulation system according to claim 5, wherein the healthcare provider computer is programmed to adjust the one or more scaling factors based on differences between actual disease control parameter values and optimal disease control parameter values.
 7. The simulation system according to claim 6, wherein the one or more scaling factors are customized to an individual patient.
 8. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the recording device and the processor unit are housed in a single unit.
 9. The simulation system according to claim 8, wherein the single unit is configured to communicate with the server via a wireless network.
 10. The simulation system according to claim 8, wherein the single unit comprises a cellular phone.
 11. The simulation system according to claim 8, wherein the single unit comprises a mobile telephone.
 12. The simulation system according to claim 8, wherein the single unit comprises a personal digital assistant (PDA).
 13. The simulation system according to claim 1, further comprising a television remote control configured to communicate with the processor unit.
 14. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one communication network comprises a network type or a combination of two or more network types selected from the group consisting of wireless networks, cellular networks, telephone networks, satellite networks, broadcast networks, digital broadcast networks, digital television networks and cable networks.
 15. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the recording device further comprises one or more monitoring devices for collecting one or more measurements of a physiological condition of the patient.
 16. The simulation system according to claim 15, wherein the one or more monitoring devices receive the one or more measurements from one or more sensors selected from the group consisting of a sensor for measuring a physiological condition, a sensor for measuring respiratory flow, a sensor for measuring a weight-related condition, a sensor for measuring a heart related condition, a sensor for measuring blood pressure and a sensor for measuring electrical activity of the individual.
 17. The simulation system according to claim 1, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values.
 18. The simulation system according to claim 17, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate the graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values using simulated data.
 19. The simulation system according to claim 17, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate the graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values using actual data.
 20. The simulation system according to claim 17, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate the graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values using simulated data, actual data, or a combination of simulated and actual data.
 21. A simulation system comprising: a processor unit; a recording device configured to communicate with the processor unit; and a server configured to (i) communicate with the processor unit and the recording device through at least one communication network and (ii) run a simulation program stored in a computer readable medium, wherein (i) the server is remotely situated from the processor unit and the recording device, (ii) the simulation program is configured to generate one or more simulated disease control parameter values and (iii) the disease control parameter values are related to patient self-care of a chronic or persistent condition being managed by a patient.
 22. The simulation system according to claim 21, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values.
 23. The simulation system according to claim 21, wherein the recording device comprises a device configured to communicate with the server via a wireless network.
 24. A simulation system comprising: a processor unit; a recording device configured to communicate with the processor unit; a server configured to (i) communicate with the processor unit through at least one communication network and (ii) run a simulation program stored in a computer readable medium, wherein (i) the server is remotely situated from the processor unit and the recording device, (ii) the simulation program is configured to generate one or more simulated disease control parameter values and (iii) the disease control parameter values are related to patient self-care of a chronic or persistent condition being managed by a patient; and a healthcare provider computer remotely situated from the server, the processor unit and the recording device, wherein the healthcare provider computer is configured to communicate with the server.
 25. The simulation system according to claim 24, wherein the simulation program is further configured to generate graphs of the one or more simulated disease control parameter values.
 26. The simulation system according to claim 24, wherein the healthcare provider computer and the server are configured to communicate via the at least one communication network.
 27. The simulation system according to claim 24, wherein communication from the server to the remotely situated processor unit is transmitted on a first type of network and communication from a healthcare provider computer to the server is transmitted on a second type of network. 